History: Relay, Summer Games

by Mark Hughes

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A New Tradition

The modern use of the Olympic Flame began in 1936. It coincided with the advent of a long relay of runners carrying torches to bring the flame from Olympia to the site of the games. Once there, the torch is used to light a cauldron that remains lit until it is extinguished in the Closing Ceremony.

Their Legs Must Be Tired

The 2004 relay was the first to start and end in Greece; it was also the first to visit every continent, crossing 34 cities in 27 countries before returning to Greece. The flame travels by plane between cities, and is relayed by foot within cities.

Honorable Bearers

Being a torch-bearer is considered an honor, one given to local residents with a record of community service, in addition to athletes and celebrities.

We Have the Technology…

The torches generally burn a gas fuel, and are specially designed to resist the effects of wind and rain.